Scholar Interns Contribute Across Michiana
Foundation programs place 22 interns at 14 local nonprofit organizations
A college scholarship is a wonderful thing. But when that scholarship also comes with a paid local internship, it becomes something even more powerful.
Since its inception in 2009, the Laidig Service Scholarship has included summer internships for each of its recipients. In 2013, the Charles Martin Scholarship followed suit. And in 2025, the Foundation began matching several of its 21st Century Success Fellows with paid internships at organizations throughout the community.
These internships provide students with more than just a paycheck. They give students the chance to work, learn, and lead here in their own community. A local internship offers purpose, connection, and a launchpad for what comes next.
“Being at The History Museum is perfect for me,” says Kyla Caparell. “I’ve gotten to do a little bit of everything, from cataloging artifacts to helping design parts of the new shipwrecks exhibit.”
The Foundation’s scholar interns will serve at more than a dozen organizations this summer, including Camp Millhouse, Reins of Life, Beacon Health, DTSB, and St. Margaret’s House. All told, they’ll give more than 5,500 hours back to the community, making St. Joseph County a better place to work, live, and thrive.
“Through the support of these talented young people, we’ve been able to grow more food,” said Sara Stewart, Executive Director at Unity Gardens. “And even better, grow our organization.”